High Peak MP and Peak District tourism marketers call on Government to help industry survive

The MP, together with Marketing Peak District & Derbyshire, are part of a nationwide campaign that is urging the government for a support package.

Mr Largan said: “Tourism and hospitality are absolutely central to our local economy in the Peak District. We all know that the sector has been badly hit by the global pandemic and it’s vital that the Government does all it can to help local businesses get through this unique economic challenge.”

Jo Dilley, managing director of Marketing Peak District and Derbyshire, said: “The coronavirus crisis has had a devastating impact on the Peak District and Derbyshire’s £2.3 billion visitor economy, and our hard-hit tourism and hospitality businesses have already missed out on a large part of the critical summer season. Whilst many businesses are eager to reopen, the restrictions in place mean it will be difficult for them to sustain their offer as they all juggle financial viability with limits on capacity and levels of investment to adapt their business. Without a winter package of long-term financial support, many businesses and associated jobs will not survive.”

Tim Farron, MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale alongside Cumbria Tourism, launched a petition last month appealing for winter support measures. The petition has gathered support from politicians, National Park leaders and destination management organisations.

Mr Farron said: “This is a national issue with hospitality currently the UK’s fourth biggest employer. I am in regular conversation with MPs from across the House about gathering cross-party support so we can continue to push the Government to help this crucial industry through the winter.”

James Mason, chief executive of Welcome to Yorkshire, said: “The tourism industry in Yorkshire is worth £9billion and employs 225,000 people. As England’s biggest county we are able to attract huge numbers of domestic and international tourists coming for our countryside and coast, national parks and vibrant cities, history and heritage as well as our arts and cultural offering.”